why make this recipe
Homemade Lemon Drops are a delightful treat that brings a burst of citrus flavor to your taste buds. Making these candies at home allows you to customize the flavor and enjoy the freshness of real ingredients. They are perfect for sharing with friends and family, or simply enjoying on your own. Plus, they are a great way to use up extra lemons you might have lying around.
how to make Homemade Lemon Drops
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- Cornstarch (for dusting)
- Optional: flavorings like lemon-lavender
Directions:
- In a saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the lemon juice and zest. Then, increase the heat and boil without stirring until it reaches the hard crack stage (300°F or 150°C) on a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Pour the mixture onto a greased marble surface or a baking sheet. Let it cool until it’s safe to handle.
- Cut into desired shapes or use cookie cutters.
- Dust with cornstarch to prevent sticking.
- Allow candies to harden completely before packaging or serving.
how to serve Homemade Lemon Drops
You can serve Homemade Lemon Drops as a sweet treat after meals, at parties, or during holiday gatherings. They can also be given as thoughtful gifts in a small jar or bag, wrapped with a nice ribbon.
how to store Homemade Lemon Drops
Store your Homemade Lemon Drops in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep them fresh and prevent them from getting sticky. Avoid exposing them to heat or moisture to ensure they hold their shape and flavor.
tips to make Homemade Lemon Drops
- Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
- Use fresh lemons for juice and zest to enhance the flavor.
- If you’d like to experiment, try adding a few drops of food-safe flavoring, like lemon-lavender, to create a unique taste.
- Work quickly when pouring and cutting the candy, as it can harden quickly at room temperature.
Serving Ideas
Consider pairing your Lemon Drops with a refreshing tea or lemonade. They can also be used as a garnish on desserts, adding a nice touch to cakes or fruit salads.
Final Thoughts
Homemade Lemon Drops are easy to make and an enjoyable project for both beginners and experienced candy makers. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious treat that brings a smile to anyone who tries them.
FAQs
-
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
- While you can use bottled lemon juice, fresh lemon juice offers a brighter and more natural flavor.
-
What if I don’t have a candy thermometer?
- You can estimate the hard crack stage by dropping a small amount of the mixture into cold water. It should form hard, brittle threads.
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Can I add colors to my Lemon Drops?
- Yes! You can add a few drops of food coloring while mixing for a fun, colorful twist.
Homemade Lemon Drops
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice Use fresh lemons for best flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest Use zest from fresh lemons.
- Cornstarch For dusting to prevent sticking.
- Optional flavorings like lemon-lavender Add for a unique taste.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the lemon juice and zest. Increase the heat and boil without stirring until it reaches the hard crack stage (300°F or 150°C) on a candy thermometer.
- Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Pour the mixture onto a greased marble surface or a baking sheet. Let it cool until it’s safe to handle.
- Cut into desired shapes or use cookie cutters.
- Dust with cornstarch to prevent sticking.
- Allow candies to harden completely before packaging or serving.